SAF Tests Mobile Anti-Drone Systems and 5G Communications at Exercise Wallaby

• •SAF is testing advanced 5G and drone countermeasures at Exercise Wallaby 2026.
• •The upgraded aerial communications node extends connectivity to 2km for frontline troops.
• •6,000 soldiers are participating in the largest SAF overseas drill, focusing on modern warfare tactics.

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting Exercise Wallaby 2026, its largest overseas drill, involving 6,000 soldiers and 1,200 platforms. The exercise focuses on testing an improved aerial communications node (ACN) and a mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) to enhance battlefield connectivity and counter drone threats. The upgraded ACN provides 5G coverage up to 2km away, offering a 400m radius of connectivity for frontline troops. The C-UAS employs sensors and jamming to detect and neutralize enemy drones. This year marks the first live firing for full-time national servicemen at Shoalwater Bay. The exercise, running until November 2, aims to validate the SAF's capabilities in a complex battlefield environment. The Shoalwater Bay Training Area is significantly larger than Singapore, allowing for extensive testing of new military technologies.